Overview
The Fire Eel is a stunning, red-bottomed species that requires a spacious tank. They are peaceful bottom feeders and do best in a well-planted, mature aquarium. With a moderate activity level, they can be a great addition to a community tank, but their size and diet may be incompatible with smaller fish. Regular water changes and careful tank management are essential to ensure their health.
Scientific Classification
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Mastacembelidae |
| Genus | Mastacembelus |
| Species | Mastacembelus erythrotaenia |
| Water type | freshwater |
Natural Habitat
Native to slow-moving rivers and streams in Africa, the Fire Eel is well adapted to subtropical waters.
Appearance
Fire Eels have a sleek, snake-like body with a striking red coloration and dark crossbars that provide excellent camouflage.
Behavior
These eels are nocturnal and spend most of their time resting on the bottom. They are generally peaceful and do not school, making them suitable for solitary or semi-solo tanks. However, they can be curious and may chase smaller fish.
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Temperament | peaceful bottom dweller |
| Schooling | No |
| Activity level | moderate |
Water Requirements
| Parameter | Ideal Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28°C (75–82°F) | Use a reliable adjustable heater |
| pH | 6–7 | Avoid sudden swings |
| Hardness (GH) | 2-10 dGH dGH | Soft to moderately hard |
| Ammonia | 0 ppm | Any detectable ammonia signals a problem |
| Nitrite | 0 ppm | Toxic even at low levels |
| Nitrate | <20 ppm | Manage through regular partial water changes |
| Min. tank | 200L (53 gal) | Larger tanks are easier to keep stable |
Interesting Facts
- Fire Eels are nocturnal and are most active at night.
- They have a unique way of breathing, extracting oxygen from the water through their skin.
- Fire Eels are known for their ability to regenerate lost fins and parts of their body.
📋 Full Care Guide
Ready to set up a tank for your Fire Eel? The complete care guide covers tank setup, feeding schedule, common diseases, tank mates, and breeding.
Read Fire Eel Care Guide →Related Species
Related Species & Guides
This species profile was reviewed for biological accuracy and practical aquarium care guidance. For suspected illness or disease, test your water parameters first and consult an aquatic veterinarian if symptoms persist.